Flames fan.....
Curtis will have a hard time getting played right now. Flames have won their last 6 in a row and are 9-1-1. The only chance he gets in down the stretch is if someone gets injured, or the Flames lose a few games in a row.
I can see why people are glad to see him go, however being a Flames fan, I also understand that if a prospect isn't given a chance to succed, they won't. We saw this with Backlund. He wasn't rushed, but when he did get a call up he was playing with plugs. When Calgary finally decided to rebuild, Backlunds linemates and minutes were better.
Fast forward to our yournger guys now, they are being put into positions to succeed. Monahan, Bennett, Tkachuk were only making the team if put in positions to succeed, according to management.
Judging by Lazar's usage (8:00 per night) and line mates, he wasn't put in a position to succeed, at least from an outsiders perspective and I could very well be wrong.
I think the Flames know Lazar has a lot of work to do. And they certainly won't put him and the team in a position to fail when we are trying to maintain a playoff spot. I can easily see him watching games, learning the system, and practicing/preparing in case he is needed. But he won't be forced into a 4th line role if that's not where they want him to succeed.
I think the Flames will protect him and expose aging and expensive Brouwer, as he is a good candidate for a leadership role with LV.
This allows Lazar to start next season with Bennett, and his bridge deal will be very small, and affordable. A show me contract.
I understand if Ottawa is through with him. But the age group of the Flames core, and the vibe in the room is exactly why they acquired him. He will fit right in.
I hope Senators (my 2nd fav Canadian team) draft and develop someone with that 2nd rounder, but time will tell. Until that happens, or until Lazar makes an impact on the ice, this trade will not produce a winner for a few years at least